Types of Dental Implants

According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, there are two major types of implants – endosteal and subperiosteal.

The Two Major Types of Dental Implants

Endosteal dental implants are implants that are put into the jawbone of the patient. In most cases, these implants are created from titanium metal. They take the shape of small screws. These are the more common type of dental implant.

Subperiosteal dental implants can be used when the patient does not have enough healthy jawbone for an endosteal dental implant. The patient may also choose the subperiosteal implant for other reasons. It is placed under the gums and above the jawbone.

Supporting Dental Implants

Patients that do not come into the dentist’s office with a healthy jawbone do have options for an endosteal implant.

Bone augmentation can make it possible for a patient to support this type of dental implants. Dental professionals may use bone additives to get the bone in shape.

Patients may also undergo a sinus lift, which is also known as a sinus elevation or sinus augmentation. In this case, a patient will have bone added below the area of the sinus. This treatment is best when the patient’s natural bone has been reduced because the back teeth are no longer in place.

Finally, a ridge expansion may be in order. This is the best treatment if a patient’s jaw is not wide enough to use common dental implants. Your doctor will create a small ridge to the top of your jaw and add bone graft material there.

Implant Alternatives

Immediate Load Implants, MDIs and All-on-4 are three alternatives to the dental implants mentioned above.

Immediate Load Implants are implants that your doctor places on the same day as temporary tooth placement.

MDIs, or mini dental implants, are narrower than common implants. The technique is also less invasive.

All-on-4 is an excellent alternative to a full arch. A temporary set of synthetic teeth can be placed in the patient’s mouth on the first appointment. This technique also avoids any new bone grafting. The patient may have to modify his or her diet for six months.